Don’t use a phone at the wheel

From Wednesday 1 March 2017, changes to the law come into effect that mean drivers who are caught using a mobile at the wheel will receive six points on their licence and a £200 fine, doubling the previous punishment.

This means that for those of you who are new drivers, if you are caught just once using your mobile phone whilst you are driving, so that’s within two years of passing your test, you could lose your licence. You will then have to re-apply for your provisional and re-take both the theory and practical tests.

Whether it’s looking at a text or a new social media post, streaming a video behind the wheel, checking emails or making a phone call, all of these activities are dangerous. Research shows that your four times more likely to crash if you use your phone and drive and your reaction time is 50% slower.

For those who aren’t able to drive yet, even as a passenger you can help to keep our roads safe. Don’t distract the driver with a mobile phone, a momentary lapse in concentration could cause a crash. And why not tell your friends, siblings, parents and family members about the tougher new penalties and encourage them to stay safe by not using a phone behind the wheel.

The message is clear and simple – don’t use you mobile phone when driving.